The historical town of Weesen has a fascinating history. Complete a
pleasant tour of the little town and experience its history for
yourselvesUp until 1882 the terrace of Amden was accessible only by
foot. After this date, the strenuous route, which was also often
dangerous in winter, was replaced by the new road.
Today there is little to be seen of the original trail. However there
are two well-preserved sections along the steep mountain flank beneath
Grappen. It is not precisely known when the direct route from Grappen
via the cliff faces to Weesen was created. At any rate, the route is
mentioned in documents dating back to the 15th century. What is
certain, though, is that the road from Weesen to Amden was opened in
1882, and that this deprived Chappeliweg of its function as the
principal route between Weesen and Amden.
To this day, it is still possible to walk along the remaining sections
of the route. For example, the route can be joined from the village of
Amden. Starting at the village centre, one can walk past the church via
Geren and Bächli down to Lehni. One then can follow the road for
approx. 500 m in the direction of Weesen. Shortly before the first road
gallery, a signpost points to the right, up to Port and Amden. Take the
western route in the direction of Port. At Port, turn around and
retrace your route, until you reach the crossing of the eastern path.
Then continue up the eastern path until you reach the road. From here
the route leads via Forten, Rindlis and Brugg back to Amden.
A less arduous alternative entails taking the bus from Ziegelbrücke,
Weesen or Amden as far as the stop Lehni. From there you can walk back
along the road for 500 m, where the route can be explored. Later one
can stroll back up to the bus stop again.
InfoBox
Further information about historical traffic routes in Switzerland is available under www.viastoria.ch
